This week, the pair addressed the disappearing American Dream, the economy, education, and Marx’s candidacy.

Marx was asked about the stagnant unemployment rate and bleak job forecast for many of his constituents.

“I think you have to go forward, sometimes, without knowing for sure what’s going to happen but with faith and confidence in the future,” Marx said. “Even though we are in the middle of some of the most difficult economic times America has ever seen, it’s also a time of tremendous opportunity for people who have good insight…and persistence to press forward in spite of doubt.”

When asked how we can solve the growing employment crisis, Marx said: “It’s easy to say this and difficult to do, but one is to be patient and the other is to stop looking for jobs, and start looking for work … I’ve had like 40 jobs, some of the most miserable conditions, and each one of those have made me a better employer and employee for myself.”

In response to a question about how an out-of-work, experienced, middle-aged employee can compete in the changing economy, Marx said it will be tough since these types of workers expect a lot of compensation.

“It’s a real serious problem…my philosophy is that you make a school available for any age person as cheaply as you possibly can – ideally free…if not it should be a very low tuition,” Marx said.

Marx said the retraining of many of our middle-aged workers is something that must be available in the digital age in which we now live. Many older workers – once resistant to technology and digital information – now realize that it is inevitable and they must be able to use email and the internet not only to find a new job but to be employable and competitive with younger applicants.

The Second Congressional District encompasses most of rural Oahu and all the neighbor islands. Marx, a Hilo attorney and long-time community activist, is running against Oahu residents Mufi Hannemann, Tulsi Gabbard, Esther Kiaaina and Rafael del Castillo for the open seat.

Marx lives in the district and is the only candidate in the race from a county other than Honolulu.

One Response to “Marx on the failing American Dream”

Unfortunately, Bob Marx is disconnected from the local people. He is from Oregon and served in the state legislature there. Oregon and Hawaii are extremely different. Although I appreciate that he lives on the neighbor island, the fact of the matter is that Oahu is where the majority of district 2 residence live. Ive heard him on televised debates and I will not be voting for him, he is simply disconnected.